This article discusses both the importance of the a democratic state senate as well as the Working Families Party and how it is "shaky" in its support for Governor Cuomo. A democratic state senate is extremely important because it can help get laws passed. It can also greatly strengthen the democratic hold in New York state itself. However, according to recent polls the key senate races are leaning in the Republicans' favor. Governor Cuomo had previously mentioned that he would be a strong advocate in helping to lead the fight for the democratic senate, but recently he mentioned. "... elect a legislature: Democratic, Republican, whatever they elect. I think the job of the governor is to figure out how to make it work.” This shows that the Governor seems to have began to care less for the senate race because he is no longer worried about the outcome of the race. This article as discussed how the Working Families Party and its relationship with the Governor has become quite tense. The relationship is so tense that the party initially lent its support to Cuomo's opposition in the primaries, but it later withdrew its support. During a event the Working Families Party held on Wednesday night, Governor was not in attendance and his name was not even mentioned more than a few times.This is just another example of the tense relationships between the Governor and the Working Families Party.
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/10/10/nyregion/as-de-blasio-aids-bid-for-democratic-senate-cuomo-is-a-nearly-invisible-man.html?_r=0
Governor Cuomo is, first and foremost, a politician in the classic sense of the word. He is known for his tactical endorsements and brokering of deals with politicians of both parties in order to get certain pieces of legislation. His tacit endorsement of Mark J. Grisanti despite his opposition to the Equal Rights Act shows remnants of the old tit-for-tat way of political wheeling and dealing. However, Cuomo does not seem to realize that we are now in an era of intense partisanship. Neglecting the Working Families Party and other Democrats will alienate his base but win him no love from conservative voters. This is not a good strategy from a man rumored to be considering a presidential bid in 2016.
ReplyDeleteI think Governor Cuomo is merely trying to say that he doesn't care whether the Republicans or the Democrats dominate in the State Senate. He believes that no matter what, in the end, the governor has to make sure he can effectively work it out with the legislative body. In regards to the Working Families Party (WFP), Cuomo has to be careful. He had promised them that he would change the Republican-dominate Senate, but his statement above refutes that. These two are basically in support of each other because of a deal: Cuomo will get endorsed if he supports the liberal policies of the WFP. If Cuomo doesn't fulfill his duty, WFP has all the right to stop supporting him.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Rebecca completely. Cuomo seems a bit overconfident and is neglecting a key demographic of voters whose support he needs.Maybe the backlash from this will wake him up and convince him to focus more on the people who he's supposed to serve.
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